TEENAGERS can take their first steps in a career in the police by signing up for a scheme.

The Explorer Programme offers 16 to 18-year-olds an insight into different aspects of policing across the county.

The 25-week programme, which starts in January next year, will let successful candidates explore the day-to-day work of police officers on the streets of West Yorkshire, as well as the work of specialist departments including Crime Scene Investigation, Safeguarding Units, Roads Policing and Crime Prevention.

They will also learn about the work of the office of the Police and Crime Commissioner, and partner agencies including West Yorkshire Trading Standards and West Yorkshire Fire Service.

Participants will be required to attend their local police station for two hours on Wednesday nights each week where they will take part in the interactive programme.

There will also be the opportunity to get involved in neighbourhood policing activities, police training and to meet the many diverse communities of West Yorkshire.

For more information, go to westyorkshire.police.uk/explorers, email lc.hqexplorer@westyorkshire.pnn.police.uk, or call 01924 292334.

The deadline for applications is Saturday, October 31.